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By Okon Okon
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has cautioned journalists against careless or sensational headlines that could trigger conflict and unrest in the country.
The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, gave the advice on Wednesday at the 2025 Press Week of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Headquarters Chapel, Abuja.
Issa-Onilu, who was the guest lecturer at the event, spoke on the theme, “The Place of the Media in Shaping and Sustaining National Values.”
He described the media as a critical institution in building and preserving national unity, stressing that journalists must balance freedom of expression with responsibility.
“Every word published, every headline crafted, and every image broadcast is more than just news, it is history in the making.”
“A careless headline can spark conflict, ignite unrest, or erode trust in institutions. Responsible reporting, on the other hand, can strengthen democracy and inspire generations,” he said.
The NOA boss commended NAN for its consistency and professionalism over the years, describing the agency as one of the “quiet but formidable pillars of truth” in Nigeria’s media landscape.
He said the Nigerian media, NAN in particular, had historically played a vital role in national development, from the struggle for independence to promoting democracy.
He advised that the agency must rise to the challenge of shaping values that unite rather than divide.
“When a young Nigerian grows up constantly seeing headlines that define his country only by its weaknesses, what sense of belonging will he develop?” Issa-Onilu asked.
“The media is not just a mirror; it is also a compass. It reflects society but also directs it.”
The NOA boss also used the occasion to highlight his agency’s ongoing Nigerian Identity Project, which seeks to embed civic education and national values into the school curriculum from the primary to tertiary levels.
According to him, the initiative is anchored on a National Values Charter built around seven core pillars, including patriotism, accountability, unity, social justice, and respect for diversity.
He called for stronger collaboration between NOA, NAN, and other media organisations to promote these values and reshape public perception of Nigeria.
“Without the media, our campaigns may echo but not resonate. With the media, our message will not only reach the people but move them,” he said.
Issa-Onilu urged journalists to report Nigeria’s challenges truthfully but also to celebrate the nation’s achievements and resilience.
“Hold leaders accountable without surrendering to cynicism. Report problems honestly but also highlight our innovators, our women and youth, and citizens who embody the best of Nigeria,” he said.
He reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to working with the media in promoting national cohesion, unity, and democratic values.
“Together, let us write the story of Nigeria that our children will be proud to inherit,” Issa-Onilu added.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the maiden event is powered by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NAN Multipurpose Staff Cooperative Society, United World Congress, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, among others.
The occasion was attended by journalists, media executives, and officials from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
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